Exercise and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Investigating the effects of cardio and non-cardio exercise on adults with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
IRAS ID
279417
Contact name
Eleanor Jane/E.J. Dommett
Contact email
Duration of Study in the UK
2 years, 0 months, 0 days
Research summary
Research Summary
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) affects around 3% of adults and is associated with reduced attention, high levels of impulsivity, hyperactivity and altered reward learning. At present adult ADHD is normally treated with psychostimulant medications (e.g. Ritalin or Adderall) but there are concerns about side effects, abuse potential and they do not work for everyone. It is therefore important to consider alternative approaches. Preliminary research on children suggests exercise may be a suitable intervention. The purpose of the study is to assess whether two forms of exercise (cycling on an exercise bike or yoga) are effective in reducing the symptoms of ADHD in adults, both alone and in combination with psychostimulant treatment. We are interested in investigating the effects of cardio (cycling on an indoor bicycle) and non-cardio (guided yoga) exercise on ADHD-related symptoms. We are specifically recruiting adults aged 18-35 who:
(1) Do not have a current or previous diagnosis of ADHD;
(2) Are not receiving any drug treatment for ADHD (and have not done so for at least 6 months);
(3) Are receiving psychostimulant treatment for ADHD;
Participants need to be fit enough to exercise for 12 minutes on an indoor exercise bicycle or to do a guided yoga session. Briefly, those interested are asked to complete a 10-minute online questionnaire (https://tinyurl.com/ExerciseADHD). If found eligible, participants will be later contacted to schedule a 2-hour lab visit at Addison House, Guy’s Campus (London Bridge). Upon successful completion of the study, participants will receive a £22 Amazon voucher as a ‘thank you’ for their time.Summary of Results
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) results in significant impairment. Current treatments, particularly for adults, are limited. Previous research indicates that exercise may offer an alternative approach to managing ADHD, but research into different types of exercise and adult populations is limited. The aim of this study was to examine the effects of acute exercise (aerobic cycling vs mind-body yoga exercises) on symptoms of ADHD in adults. Adults with ADHD (N = 82) and controls (N = 77) were randomly allocated to 10 min of aerobic (cycling) or mind-body (Hatha yoga) exercise. Immediately before and after exercise, participants completed the Test of Variables of Attention task, Delay Discounting Task, and Iowa Gambling Task to measure attention and impulsivity. Actigraphy measured movement frequency and intensity. Both groups showed improved temporal impulsivity, that is being willing to wait for a larger pay-off, post-exercise, with cycling beneficial to all, whilst yoga only benefited those with ADHD. There were no effects of exercise on attention, cognitive (decision) or motor impulsivity, or movement in those with ADHD. Exercise reduced attention and increased movement in controls. Exercise can improve some impulsivity in adult ADHD but did not improve other symptoms and worsened some aspects of performance in controls. Exercise interventions should be further investigated.
REC name
North of Scotland Research Ethics Committee 1
REC reference
20/NS/0053
Date of REC Opinion
10 Apr 2020
REC opinion
Favourable Opinion